When choosing a fifth wheel hitch, look for models with strong articulation, smooth operation, and compatibility with your truck’s mounting system. This guide highlights five reliable options suited for different needs, from heavy towing to OEM puck-system compatibility. The top picks are best for fleets, weekend campers, and owners upgrading from older systems. Each product includes who it’s best for, what makes it stand out, and any notable limitations.
Quick comparison at a glance
- B&W Companion 3500: Best all-around with quiet ride and strong durability for mid-size to full-size pickups.
- B&W 25K Companion OEM: Best for Ford OEM puck-enabled trucks seeking robust front-to-back and side-to-side articulation.
- CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel: Best for easy single-handle operation and dual-axis pivoting for precise alignment.
- B&W 20K Companion OEM: Best for Ford OEM puck setups needing dependable release and articulation.
- Andersen Gen 3 Ultimate: Best for lightweight installation with very high GTWR and easy remote latch access.
B&W Companion Fifth Wheel Hitch – RVK3500
The B&W Companion RVK3500 features a fully articulating head that permits front-to-back and side-to-side movement, promoting smooth coupling and a quiet ride. The cam action latching handle ensures easy release, even on unlevel sites, which is helpful for work trucks or remote campsites. Built with polyurethane bushings, it offers a quieter towing experience and durable performance under repeated use.
Best for: Towing enthusiasts and professional operators who require durable, flexible articulation and reliable release in varied driving conditions. The hitch is well-suited for mid-to-heavy payloads where stability and quiet operation matter.
Limitations: While designed for broad compatibility, installation complexity can vary by mounting configuration and vehicle setup. Ensure clear fit with your truck’s bed and rails before purchase.
B&W 25K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch
Designed for Ford OEM hitch platforms, this model emphasizes compatibility with factory puck systems while preserving B&W’s proven full-articulation head and cam action latching handle. The design aims to deliver dependable performance with consistent operation across a range of towing scenarios, including uneven terrain.
Best for: Owners of Ford trucks equipped with OEM puck systems who want strong, proven articulation and easy handling with factory-fit mounting.
Limitations: Data emphasizes compatibility and mechanism rather than explicit weight ratings; confirm the 25K rating aligns with your truck’s configuration and hitching needs.
B&W 20K Companion OEM Fifth Wheel Hitch
This model targets Ford OEM puck platforms with the same trusted B&W articulation and release features. The head offers front-to-back and side-to-side pivoting, paired with a cam action latch intended to simplify hitching and unhitching on varying site grades. The design supports sustained, reliable towing performance.
Best for: Ford OEM puck system users seeking a robust, easy-to-use fifth wheel hitch with steady articulation and quick-release capability.
Limitations: The emphasis on OEM compatibility means cross-vehicle support beyond Ford puck setups may be limited; verify compatibility with your specific truck bed and rails.
Fifth 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch Mount Rails Kit
This universal mounting kit provides installation rails, brackets, and hardware for a broad range of fifth-wheel hitches. Rails sit on top of the truck bed floor and can accommodate multiple hitch brands, including Curt, Draw-Tite, Hidden Hitch, Reese, Valley, and Husky. It’s a versatile option for owners who want a single rails-based installation across different hitches.
Best for: Buyers who frequently switch hitches or want a universal rails-based mounting solution for a variety of brands and bed sizes.
Limitations: Not compatible with Reese Elite or Signature Series models; verify your specific hitch model and bed configuration before purchasing.
Andersen Hitches Gen 3 Ultimate 5th Wheel Connection
The Gen 3 Ultimate Connection is notably lightweight at about 37 lbs yet rated for up to 24,000 lbs GTWR and 4,500 lbs tongue weight. It features two height settings to fit most trucks and trailers, plus a compact offset base for stability. A patented remote latch cable enables hitching from outside the bed, improving safety and ease of use during setup.
Best for: Solo installers or users prioritizing a lighter setup with high towing capacity and convenient external latch operation.
Limitations: While very versatile, the remote latch system adds a separate component to manage, and some users may prefer a traditional in-bed latch for feel and control.
Buying Guide
- Vehicle compatibility: Confirm the hitch’s mounting system (OEM puck, standard rails, or universal rails) matches your truck. OEM puck setups often require specific hitch models from the brand.
- Articulation and ease of use: Hitches with fully articulating heads and cam-action latching provide smoother coupling and easier release, particularly on uneven ground.
- Weight rating and tongue weight: Match the hitch GTWR and tongue weight with your trailer’s requirements to avoid overloading or underutilization.
- Installation considerations: Some options are rail-based or require installation rails; ensure you have compatible mounting hardware and sufficient bed space.
- Noise and vibration: Polyurethane bushings and well-sealed components reduce rattling and noise during highway towing.
- Remote features: Remote latching or external release can improve safety and convenience but require careful maintenance and battery checks.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a fifth wheel hitch’s main advantage? It provides stable alignment over the trailer’s kingpin, improving control and safety during long hauls and tight turns.
- Do I need a specific brand for OEM puck systems? Yes, many OEM puck setups require brand-specific hitches designed to fit Ford, GM, or Ram configurations.
- What does articulation help with? It allows the hitch head to pivot in multiple directions, compensating for uneven terrain and truck-trailer misalignment.
- Is a lighter hitch always better? Lighter hitches are easier to handle, but ensure they still meet your trailer’s weight and tongue weight requirements.
- When should I choose a universal rails kit? If you want flexibility across different hitches or frequently swap between models, universal rails can save time and effort.
- What maintenance is needed? Regularly inspect pins, latches, and bushings; clean debris from moving parts and lubricate per manufacturer recommendations.
| Product | Best For | Mount Type | Articulation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B&W Companion RVK3500 | General use, durable performance | Universal | Full | Quiet ride; strong build |
| B&W 25K Companion OEM RVK3305 | Ford OEM puck systems | OEM puck | Full | Factory fit, robust |
| CURT 16115 E16 5th Wheel | Easy operation | Rail/Bed | Dual-axis | Single-handle operation |
| B&W 20K Companion OEM RVK3300 | Ford OEM puck systems | OEM puck | Full | Reliable release |
| Andersen Gen 3 Ultimate | Lightweight, high capacity | Bed rail/adapter | Single remote latch | Remote latch simplifies hitching |